I want to express my appreciation for all the kind words spoken and thought by everyone in this thread. As you can imagine, even though I wanted to thank you earlier, it was a very difficult matter to broach.

Eddiecat was terrific !

As Bob said he moved in with me about 20 years ago. He actually adopted ME I can tell you that cats CAN feel and communicate. We just have to listen. You see, he move in a couple of days after I was diagnosed with M.S., and he stayed at my side through good times and bad. I think it was Eddie who was the real reason I was able to weather through some particularily bad exacerbations of the disease, and why I am still going today. Interestingly, two friends I had made at the MS Clinic and who were diagnosed at the same time as me both died within 18 months of the diagnosis.

Eddie taught me to speak Kat (the language they use to communicate with each other). He taught me strength by pulling through impossible odds after he was poisoned and went into septic shock. He taught me compassion for the elderly. But most of all, he taught me that none of us are truly alone. Everything we do imapcts on others; everything that others do impacts on us..... thus there is always someone who truly DOES care.

In later years he helped me through 4 strokes, although by that time he was of very advanced age himself. It was at that time that Bob came into my life, and ever since Bob has taken over and become my caregiver.

So I have lots to be grateful for. I now have Eddie's ashes here to remind me to remain strong, and my dear nephew Bob (who actually saved my life after my second stroke) to care for me and MAKE me soldier onward.

And now, all of your kind thoughts and comments bouy me up even more. A big "hug" to you all, and may you be as fortunate as me in your own times of need.

Cheers to you all ! Good health and kindness be with you .......


-=King of Shiva=-